Statement by The Rockefeller Foundation President Rajiv J. Shah on the Passing of Pope Francis

Pope Francis, who passed away today, lived a life of moral leadership. His commitment to fighting some of the world’s most persistent challenges — extreme poverty, food insecurity, climate change, and more — will continue as a beacon of hope and inspiration.

In difficult times, Pope Francis exemplified the integrity and courage that all who hope to change the world aspire to. He understood the power of bringing people together. Through the Pontifical Academy, he regularly convened experts and world leaders to remind all of us that ultimately it was our empathy and our commitment to working for the most vulnerable on this planet that lifted all our spirits. By placing compassion at the heart of his leadership and by sharing his compassion with so many of us, he exemplified how to serve others and build a better world.

Getting to meet him at the Vatican was one of the most meaningful moments in my life — and we should all carry forward the love he represented. He will be sorely missed.